ArcaMax

Q: Why does one of my cats bring her mouse toy into the bedroom each night, vocalizing all the while? We say "thank you," she drops the toy, and we all go to bed. During the day, she doesn't play with this toy at all. I'm guessing she's offering us a gift to demonstrate that she's a skilled hunter. --G.C.M., Pahrump, NV

A: "It might be that for whatever reason, the cat delivered the toy, and you offered attention," says Holub. "Our cats do all sorts of things for attention, and you've reinforced the behavior."

Olah adds, "I think you may be right; the cat just loves you and wants to give you a gift. Or the cat is very confused. Mother cats bring live prey back to their kittens to kill. Perhaps, the cat thinks you're a kitten."

"Well, maybe not," says Holub, who laughs.

"Clearly, your cat is offering a gift, reinforced or by choice," Weigner says. "It means you're loved."

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Q: My daughter adopted Bob the cat. Thinking Bob was lonely and needed company, she then adopted Ted, another neutered male cat, who's very gentle. Unfortunately, Bob has now turned into a monster, attacking, bullying and biting Ted whenever he can. My daughter has tried to reassure Bob that he's No. 1. We thought these two would be pals, but they can't be trusted in the same room without supervision. What's going on? -- H K., Kirkland, Quebec, Canada

A: Reassuring Bob that he's Top Cat may not be communicating the message your daughter intended.

The problem may have originated with the way the cats were introduced. Without a very gradual introduction and lots of positive associations, cats may not get off on the right paw. "And once negative associations are established, over time, it's more common for the relationship to continue to disintegrate," says Holub.

Here are a few tricks of the trade: You could try putting a collar with a bell around Bob's neck, which would give Ted a heads up that Bob's on the way. Also, since cats live by their noses, dabbing some baking soda on both cats so their scents become the same might help smooth out their relationship.

At this point, it's likely both cats are anxious. Olah suggests asking your veterinarian about three stress-busters which could do no harm: Zylkene (a nutritional supplement that contains a natural product, derived from casein, a protein in milk known to promote the relaxation), Anxitane (L-Theamine, a nutritional supplement to lower anxiety) and/or Feliway spray (a copy of a calming pheromone).

Enriching the cats' environment might help. For starters, offer Bob and Ted more vertical space where they can get away from each other. Provide activities to distract both cats, especially Bob. For example, offer treats and/or kibble in food-dispensing balls and puzzle toys.

"For times when the cats are playing or acting appropriately, reinforce (this behavior) with praise and treats," Olah says. Another option: Keep Bob and Ted separated for a week or more, then bring them together only for brief encounters accompanied by great treats, like bits of tuna or salmon. Hopefully, with time, each will associate these amazing goodies with the presence of the other cat.

If these methods fail, ask your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medication.

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